Bacterial source tracking (BST) is a valuable tool that can identify and rule out significant sources of E. coli pollution in a watershed. Using DNA fingerprints and bacterial markers, fecal pollution sources are identified by comparing E. coli DNA to those in a statewide library of known sources. Identifying and assessing sources of these bacteria is critical to properly determining risk to water recreation, developing effective watershed restoration strategies such as watershed protection plans (WPPs) and total maximum daily loads (TMDLs), and efficiently targeting management measures.

Bacterial source tracking can:

• Identify primary sources of E. coli
• Illustrate the relative abundance of E. coli from identified sources
• Determine the presence or absence of major watershed sources
• Inform watershed management decisions
• Allow resources to be used wisely and focused where pollutant reductions are needed most

Our BST program can provide:

• Timely results
• Thorough quality assurance and control standards
• Easy to understand presentation and interpretation of results